Testing and Analysis of Geogrid-reinforced Thin-shell Masonry

To investigate the potential of geogrid reinforcing for thin-shell masonry, static panel bending tests and dynamic shake table vault tests were conducted. The panel constituents (geogrid, tiles, and mortar) were first tested individually to develop an analytical model for the composite section.

Panel tests show a significant increase in ductility, confirming the benefits of the reinforcing. Predictions of the analytical model show good agreement with the experimental tests, and clarify the structural behaviour. Dynamic shake table tests were performed on singly curved, two-meter span masonry vaults, both with and without geogrid reinforcing. Results demonstrate the benefit of the reinforcing technique under seismic loading.